Disorganization, Confusion, And Stained Carpets In The Ruins Of Ron Johnson’s JCPenney

Equities strategist Brian Sozzi has developed a very specific sideline: taking blog readers on tours of sad, pitiful, dilapidated stores belonging to iconic 20th century retailers. This isn’t just a hobby, but is related to his work. Namely, telling people, “for gosh sakes, don’t buySears Holdings stock!” Now, his Retail Despair Tour is making a stop at JC Penney.

There’s a lot there to look at. Similar to Kmart and Sears, there are clearance racks crammed full of stuff that nobody wants and display racks that are empty. There are stained carpets and hardware and trash where there shouldn’t be.

Spacious, empty aisles might work at the Apple Store, but here it just puts the focus on the patched-up floor.

When prices reach sub-thrift store levels, it’s a sign that they can’t move merchandise through the store.

What’s supposed to be on these empty racks? Who cares? It’s not like anyone is coming to buy anything anyway.

Who goes to JC Penney to spend $2,375 on a bedding set? If you have that much to spend, you’re not visiting a JC Penney store. If you’re already in JC Penney, you aren’t someone who would spend $2,375 on a bedding set.